With the world ever-evolving, keeping up with travel requirements is key for a stress-free journey. As of 2024, American travelers planning to visit Europe will need to navigate a new requirement. To ensure you’re prepared for your European adventure, we've laid out all the essential details.
Starting from 2024, U.S. passport holders who previously enjoyed visa-free access to Europe will need to apply for an authorization through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) before visiting.
The application form will be available on the official ETIAS website and via a mobile application. It comes with a fee of 7 euros or $7.79 U.S. dollars, and all communication will be conducted via email.
Once approved for travel, the ETIAS authorization allows visitors to stay in European countries that require ETIAS for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Travelers must be in possession of a valid ETIAS throughout their entire stay. ETIAS states that most applications should be processed within minutes. However, some applications may take up to four days or, in cases where additional documentation is required, up to 14 days.
The European Union advises travelers to apply for ETIAS authorization well in advance of your planned journey. Upon receiving ETIAS travel authorization, travelers should ensure all their information is correct, as mistakes could prevent entry.
If an application is refused, an email will be sent detailing the reasons and providing information about the appeal process.
ETIAS travel authorization is valid for three years or until the travel document used in the application expires, whichever comes first.
The ETIAS authorization is linked to a person's travel document, such as a U.S. passport, and both documents will be needed for travel.
ETIAS authorization doesn't guarantee automatic right of entry. Border guards will verify entry conditions and can refuse entry to anyone who doesn't meet them.